Dear Howard University Community,

I regret to inform you of the recent passing of Joe Allen Hairston, Ed.D. Hairston served on the faculty of the School of Education as an Associate Professor, and was a respected teacher, administrator, and public servant. Hairston began his career over 50 years ago as an educator in Prince George’s County, MD.  He held positions as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent during his 25-year tenure before becoming Superintendent of Clayton County Public Schools in the Atlanta metropolitan area for 5 years.

A visionary and progressive leader, Hairston also served as Superintendent of Baltimore County Public Schools for 12 years.  In his first year, Hairston charted a direction for the school system through the Blueprint for Progress, which presented key strategies and concrete performance indicators. He was renowned for his use of technology to support classroom instruction, preparing students for new career opportunities, and increasing the efficiency of school system operations. His 12-year tenure as superintendent in a large school district ranks among one of the longest tenure in a Baltimore Metropolitan District. 

Hairston joined the faculty of the Howard University School of Education in 2014. Within his first year, he developed a ground-breaking partnership and co-founded the Howard University/ American Association of School Administrators Urban Superintendent Academy.  In this role, Hairston developed curricula, taught modules, engaged diverse stakeholders, and mentored education leaders.  He was a servant leader with an unwavering commitment to ensure that all schools have effective leadership.

For his achievements, Hairston has been honored with dozens of local, national and international awards, including the Washington Post’s Outstanding Distinguished Educational Leadership Award.  He has served on the Board of Trustees for Western Governors University and as the Past President of the Horace Mann League of the USA. 

The Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, January 3, 2020, at Morning Star Baptist Church, 1512 Woodlawn Drive, Gwynn Oak, MD 21207.  The Howard University community will continue to keep the Hairston Family, including his wife, Lillian Hairston, in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you.

Excellence in Truth and Service,

Anthony K. Wutoh, Ph.D., R.Ph.
Provost and Chief Academic Officer